Lufkin elementary uses Education Foundation grant to create outdoor classroom

LUFKIN, Texas (KTRE) - Students at Slack Elementary School in Lufkin are taking their lessons outside thanks to a grant provided by the Lufkin Independent School District’s Education Foundation.

The Education Foundation grant helped create an outdoor classroom consisting of chickens, turtles, as well as provide an opportunity for students to learn more about the world around them.

“This encourages them to be eager and learn it also provides an opportunity for questioning a lot of the students come out here and ask a lot of questions. They want to know about the pond or animals in the pond and they get very curious," said Gustavo Monsante, fifth grade dual language teacher.

The outdoor classroom currently has chickens, turtles and fishes.

Veterinarian Brian Hafernick stopped by to certify the new chickens in the coop and gave the students a demonstration.

“He also brought some of the tools and this gives the students an opportunity to see what they want to be when they grow up," said Monsante.

And there were quite a few students who would like to follow in his footsteps.

“I want to work with dogs because I think they are fascinating," said fifth grader Jessica Camacho.

“I want to work with horses because I like the way that people help them and I really like riding horses," said fifth grader Gustavo DelaPaz.

Overall, teachers said they are hoping to inspire teachers and encourage students to come outside and learn.

“Other teachers in the district as well here at Slack Elementary to know that we have an environment for kids to question, learn and grow," said Monsante.

Yvonne Hunt donated the chickens. She works at the school and is the owner of Bald Hill Poultry.

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